![]() Imperfections can arise during manufacturing, when surfaces are exposed to the environment prior to packaging, or even when an optic is in transit. In concept, optical surfaces are idealized perfect shapes, although in the real world no surface can be made without blemish. In addition to the human eye, a range of optical equipment is used for close inspection of optical surface texture, including large-aperture interferometers, white-light interferometers, and atomic force microscopes. In the end, though, establishing the correct specification comes down to determining whether and how surface defects may affect the optical system and its intended use. Optical inspections utilize a host of techniques to reveal surface details that are difficult or impossible to be seen with the naked eye, and these techniques give rise to a wide array of specifications with equally numerous and confusing terminology. Humans have yet to be usurped by automation, in this niche at least, but automated inspection could become an increasingly useful option if current trends continue. It may come as a surprise to learn that, in sharp contrast to the high-precision practices of the optics industry, many optical surfaces are still inspected by the naked eye. ![]() ![]() Defects matter when it comes to optical surfaces, but knowing what types of flaws are acceptable requires a combination of surface inspection and close communication between supplier and user. ![]()
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